Shenzhen, China — American tennis star Taylor Townsend, the world’s top-ranked doubles player, has issued a public apology after facing backlash over social media posts in which she criticized food served in China ahead of the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.
What Happened
The controversy began when Townsend, 29, shared videos on Instagram of local Chinese dishes — including bullfrogs and turtles — while joking that she might need to “talk to HR” about the quality of the food at a dinner buffet. Her remarks drew swift criticism online, with many accusing her of being disrespectful toward Chinese cuisine and culture.
Townsend’s Apology
On Tuesday, Townsend addressed the situation in a video posted to her Instagram Stories. Speaking directly to fans and critics, she said:
“I just wanted to come on here and apologize sincerely from the bottom of my heart. I understand that I am so privileged as a professional athlete to be able to travel all around the world and experience cultural differences, which is one of the things I love so much about what I do.”
She continued by praising her time in China, saying the tournament organizers and local community had been “kind and gracious,” and admitting her comments had not reflected that reality.
“There’s no excuse, there’s no words, and for me – I will be better. I’m really, really thankful to my country to be able to represent them and to be better, and that’s all that I can do. So, I just truly apologize.”
Career Highlights
Townsend has been enjoying a career-best run in doubles. She won her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January 2024, followed by another victory at Wimbledon later that summer. Currently ranked No. 1 in doubles, she is representing the United States at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Shenzhen, where the team is set to face Kazakhstan in the quarterfinals on Thursday.
Comparisons to Past Controversies
Townsend’s apology drew comparisons to a 2021 incident involving actor and wrestler John Cena, who issued a public apology in Mandarin after facing backlash in China for referring to Taiwan as a country during a promotional interview. Cena’s remarks triggered a wave of criticism, leading him to post an apology video on Chinese social media platform Weibo and later on X (formerly Twitter).
What Happens Next
While Townsend’s apology has been widely shared, it remains to be seen how her comments will impact her reception in Shenzhen during the Billie Jean King Cup. For now, she is focusing on competition, while urging fans and followers to understand her remarks do not reflect her respect for Chinese culture.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Taylor Townsend Issues Apology After Criticism Over Comments on Chinese Cuisine first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
